Before this match, Cape Verde had two points from two draws, including a 2-2 against Uruguay, while Saudi Arabia had collected one point with a draw and a heavy 0-4 defeat to Spain. With this scoreline, Cape Verde move to 3 points and finish second behind Spain and ahead of Saudi Arabia, who have 2 points.

The match was intense and disciplined, marked by several yellow cards, including those for Saud Abdulhamid (4th) and Nasser Al-Dawsari (67th) for Saudi Arabia, as well as Wagner Pina for Cape Verde (9th). Coaches Pedro Leitao Brito and Georgios Donis made several changes, notably in the second half, but neither side managed to break through the opposing defence.

Cape Verde lined up in a 4-1-4-1 with Dailon Rocha Livramento leading the line and a midfield driven by Jamiro Monteiro and Ryan Mendes. Goalkeeper Vozinha made several key saves, helping to preserve the scoreline. Saudi Arabia set up in a classic 4-4-2 with Firas Al-Buraikan and Mohamed Kanno in attack, supported by Salem Al-Dawsari and Nasser Al-Dawsari in midfield, but lacked attacking efficiency throughout the match.

Despite a slightly higher possession rate for Cape Verde (54%), clear-cut chances remained rare. Both teams each had two shots on target and around ten attempts in total. The contest was largely fought in midfield, with sustained physical commitment but no major flashpoints.

Cape Verde solid in their 4-1-4-1 system with a compact centre-back pairing

Head coach Pedro Leitao Brito confirmed his usual 4-1-4-1 structure. The defence held firm against Saudi attacks, notably thanks to Pico and Diney Borges, supported by João Paulo at right-back. Defensive midfielder Kevin Lenini played a crucial role in winning the ball back and restarting play. In attack, the team relied on the dynamism of Ryan Mendes and the creativity of Jamiro Monteiro to supply Livramento with the ball.

Saudi Arabia still searching for efficiency in the final phase with their 4-4-2

Georgios Donis opted for a traditional 4-4-2 with the attacking duo of Al-Buraikan and Kanno. The four-man midfield tried to create numerical advantages, with Salem Al-Dawsari and Nasser Al-Dawsari tasked with building play. While there was defensive solidity, notably thanks to Hassan Tambakti and Abdulelah Al-Amri in central defence, a lack of finishing and precision prevented the Saudi team from earning a positive result.